This green certification is no easy task but became one of importance to Malkin Holdings who not only holds stake as an owner of the Empire State Building but also acts as asset manager. Changes included updating windows with better insulation features and upgrading air-conditioning to a system that will lower consumption by 38%. LEED does not disclose final rating of structures until completion of renovation, but it is believed the changes will earn the Empire State Building a gold rating. Back in January of 2011, Anthony Malkin of Malkin Holdings reported a deal to use wind power to make use of clean energy. As was quoted in the New York Daily News, “”It was a natural fit for us to combine 100% clean energy with our nearly completed, ground-breaking energy efficiency retrofit work.”

Building green structures or renovating to a higher green standard have become popular for environmental aid, but also for its appeal to potential tenants. These changes may also help nudge other New York neighbors to follow suit and make needed changes. By year’s end the Empire will publicly report energy usage allowing New Yorkers and the world to see the savings and while marveling at its lowered carbon footprint.

Visit the Empire State Building website for more information on it’s green plans and to learn more about the building itself. The site also offers a schedule for what colors the building will shine during the week. What do you think about these changes and what changes are being made in your city? New Yorkers, you must have opinions.